Active Abu Dhabi, a project by Emirates Foundation, has launched the national program Misrah during an introductory workshop at its headquarters in Al Qana, Abu Dhabi. This initiative aims to support community initiatives throughout 2025, aligning with the UAE’s aspirations for the Year of Community. The workshop gathered representatives from various government entities, community organizations, and key media and logistics partners.

The workshop was attended by 50 participants, including entities such as the Abu Dhabi Sports Council, Abu Dhabi Heritage Authority, and the Department of Education and Knowledge – Abu Dhabi, among others. The event focused on exploring cooperation and integration opportunities between government and private sector entities, highlighting the essential roles of media, logistics, and culture in supporting the initiative.

Misrah is a key initiative that brings the UAE’s founding fathers’ values to life through an immersive journey that integrates culture, identity, and physical activity. It seeks to instill authentic Emirati values in the youth while fostering a sense of belonging and social responsibility.

His Excellency Ahmed Talib Al Shamsi, CEO of Emirates Foundation, expressed that “Misrah embodies the vision we hold at Emirates Foundation, where we believe that true empowerment begins with a sense of belonging.” He emphasized the importance of community partnerships as essential drivers of positive change.

Mansour Al Dhaheri, Chairman of Active Abu Dhabi, stated that Misrah serves as a message to young people, emphasizing that the past inspires the future. He highlighted the connection between health, identity, and community awareness, noting that the initiative encapsulates the essence of Active Abu Dhabi.

Aligned with the national vision, Misrah combines physical activities like walking and camel riding with heritage experiences that reflect the desert lifestyle of previous generations. This approach aims to enhance young people’s appreciation of their cultural heritage and cultivate a strong sense of national pride.

Participants will embark on a journey of up to 1,000 kilometers over 30 days, engaging in daily walks that mirror ancient travel practices. Along the way, they will develop essential qualities such as patience, discipline, and cooperation.

As part of the Year of Community, Misrah serves as a vibrant platform to transform the year’s objectives into meaningful actions. It empowers youth to become ambassadors of national identity and stewards of knowledge and values for future generations, engaging their physical, psychological, and cultural potential.

Beyond the physical journey, Misrah represents a path of awareness, belonging, and cultural discovery. It emphasizes young people’s ability to connect with the past while inviting the broader community to participate through cultural events, storytelling, and media engagement.

Emirates Foundation, established on April 12, 2005, by UAE President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, aims to facilitate public-private initiatives that promote social responsibility across the UAE. The foundation collaborates with various partners to address national needs and foster sustainable community development.